Unusual Asian destinations: 15 lesser-known countries you should visit

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This was published 4 years ago

Unusual Asian destinations: 15 lesser-known countries you should visit

By Ute Junker
Updated
Bring your hiking boots; Kyrgyzstan is all about the spectacular trekking.

Bring your hiking boots; Kyrgyzstan is all about the spectacular trekking.Credit: Lukas Bischoff

Here is a question guaranteed to kick off an argument on your next trivia night: which continent is home to both the highest point on earth and the lowest?

Most people know that the highest point on earth is in Asia, in the peaks of the Himalaya. The lowest, though – isn't that the shore of the Dead Sea, found in the Middle East? It certainly is; but the Middle East, you may be surprised to learn, is actually considered to be part of Asia. The Asian continent stretches from Japan in the east and Indonesia in the south all the way west to the frontiers of Eastern Europe.

Yet as Australian travellers we tend to possess a rather narrow perspective on what is Asia and what isn't. The precise boundary between Europe and Asia is the sort of tricky topic geographers enjoy debating, but the line is generally drawn by following major features such as the Ural River and the Black Sea.

Some countries, such as Russia and Turkey, straddle both sides of the divide; others have something of a disputed status. Georgia is sometimes counted as a European country, sometimes as an Asian one; the United Nations puts it on the Asian side of the divide.

In fact, Asia counts as the world's largest continent, home to more than 4 billion people spread over more than 40 countries with climatic conditions that range from polar to tropical.

So let's look beyond Bali, Vietnam and Thailand, and turn our attention towards some of Asia's less-visited – and less-recognised – destinations to discover why they deserve a turn in the spotlight.

KAZAKHSTAN

Credit: Alamy

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT

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With more than 2 million square kilometres of territory, there is a lot of Kazakhstan to explore. True, a third of the country is covered by the emptiness of the Kazakh Steppe, but that still leaves plenty to see, from ancient Silk Road cities to dramatic natural landmarks.

DO + SEE

Start your explorations in Nur-Sultan, the capital previously known as Astana. Along with several futuristic buildings, Nur-Sultan is home to the mammoth Nur-Sultan mosque, which can hold 5000 worshippers inside and another 200 outside. Other key attractions include the ancient Silk Road ghost town of Otrar, the eye-catching landscapes of the Altyn-Emel National Park, and magnificent Charyn Canyon. The singing barchan, a vast sand dune that "hums" in windy weather, is another highlight.

DON'T MISS

You may never get to explore space but you can explore Baikonur, the world's first and largest space port, where astronauts lift off en route to the International Space Station.

WHERE TO STAY

Nur-Sultan has a surprising number of high-end hotels. Among the best is the Ritz-Carlton Astana, with a sophisticated design that blends dark wood with gold detailing and a restaurant run by the team from Moscow's acclaimed White Rabbit restaurant. See ritzcarlton.com

ESSENTIALS

Intrepid Travel's 14-day Kazakhstan Adventure takes in all the country's highlights. From $4343. See intrepidtravel.com

OMAN

Credit: iStock

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT

There are some things you expect to find on the Arabian Peninsula: bustling souks, for instance, or dramatic deserts. Oman has plenty of those, but it also offers amazing canyons and turquoise freshwater pools, along with an astonishing 3000 kilometres of coastline.

DO + SEE

The compact capital of Muscat has its fair share of attractions, but the most interesting destinations lie beyond the city limits. Discover the eye-catching beehive tombs at Bat, which date back more than 4000 years, then head to Oman's mountains, which rejoice in a Mediterranean climate. Explore the canyon at Jabel Shams as well as the vast rose gardens and frankincense orchards that flourish in the temperate climate. Don't miss the inviting Wadi Bani Khalid, where you can swim in emerald waters protect by white boulders.

DON'T MISS

Oman's beaches are favoured nesting sites for five turtle species; depending on the time of year you are visiting, you may be able to see turtles laying their eggs or hatchlings making their way to the water.

WHERE TO STAY

Sitting 2000 metres above sea level, Alila Jabal Akhdar in the Al Hajar mountains is a stylish retreat with magnificent mountain views from every room. See alilahotels.com

ESSENTIALS

Bunnik Tours' seven-day Discover Oman trip takes in the best of the country from the mountains to the beaches. From $2425. See bunniktours.com.au

GEORGIA

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ACredit: iStock

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT

With snow-capped peaks, charming mountain villages and some of the region's most appetising cuisine, Georgia is rapidly becoming a favourite with adventurous travellers.

DO + SEE

The capital city of Tbilisi is an enticing destination, a place where you can stroll grand boulevards and winding cobblestone streets, browse vintage markets and hipster boutiques, admire colourful street art and soak in old-school thermal baths. Beyond Tbilisi, the snow-capped Caucasus mountains beckon with their beech forests and traditional villages. Other don't-miss sights include the 1000-year-old Vardzia cave village and the ancient stone towers of Svaneti, defensive structures that bear witness to the murderous blood feuds that once raged in this scenic region.

DON'T MISS

Kakheti is where Georgia's best wines are produced, and a visit to at least one of the many wineries is recommended. Winemakers here still follow ancient traditions, such as fermenting grapes in clay vessels rather than barrels.

WHERE TO STAY

The stylish Moxy Tbilisi has small rooms but generous public areas, and the energetic staff are always happy to help. See marriott.com

ESSENTIALS

Best of Caucasus' eight-day Best of Georgia trip takes in cathedrals and cave towns, as well as plenty of good food and wine. From £1295 ($2320). See best-of-caucasus.co.uk

JORDAN

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT

If all Jordan had going for it was the rose-red city of Petra, carved into the cliffs by the long-vanished Nabatean civilisation, the country would still be a must-visit. But this compact kingdom has a lot more to see and experience.

DO + SEE

On any given day in Jordan, you might be floating weightlessly in the Dead Sea, hiking through the desert, or exploring mighty mosques or Byzantine churches. While the city of Amman is definitely worth a visit, it is out in the spectacular deserts that you will have your most memorable experiences. Few places can match the sheer wild beauty of Wadi Rum; a night spent camping with Bedouins here is an unforgettable experience. However, your visit to Petra is the highlight of any trip. Don't rush it; allow a full day at the very least to explore it thoroughly.

DON'T MISS

With its monumental gates, its colonnaded avenues and imposing temples, Jerash is one of the most atmospheric Roman ruins outside Italy.

WHERE TO STAY

With a design based on traditional caravanserais and activities ranging from walks to stargazing talks, Feynan Ecolodge is one of Jordan's most memorable properties. See ecohotels.me

ESSENTIALS

Butterfield and Robinson's eight-day Walking Jordan tour is designed to let you explore the country's sights as they are seen best – on foot. From $US7495 ($10,756). See butterfield.com

KYRGYZSTAN

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT

There is something magical about the combination of soaring peaks and pristine lakes, and few countries meld the two as spectacularly as the republic of Kyrgyzstan, a small country dominated by the Tien Shan mountain range. It is a country where icy glaciers overlook verdant plateaus where shepherds still graze their flocks as they have done for generations.

DO + SEE

Bring your hiking boots; Kyrgyzstan is all about the spectacular trekking. You will rarely see another traveller as you explore picturesque trails that skirt the base of the mighty Karakol peak, which juts 5200 metres into the sky, or wind your way along alpine passes such as the 3800-metre Ala Kol Pass. Fir trees flank the lovely Arashan Gorge, where meadows burst into bloom in spring with snowdrops, edelweiss and wild tulips.

DON'T MISS

The 182 kilometre-long Issyk-Kul Lake sits 1600 metres above sea level. Although the surrounding peaks keep their mantle of snow all year long, you can swim in the lake year round thanks to the natural geothermal heating.

WHERE TO STAY

Outside the capital, Bishkek, accommodation tends to be simple, but spending a night or two in a traditional yurt is sure to be a highlight. The Happy Nomads Yurt Camp in Karakol is a good option. See happynomads.info

ESSENTIALS

World Expeditions' 15-day Kyrgyzstan and the Tien Shan Mountains trip starts from $3670 a person. See worldexpeditions.com

ISRAEL

Credit: Alamy

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT

Say the word "Israel" and many travellers' thoughts head straight to Jerusalem, a city regarded as holy by three religions, rich in sacred sites such as the Wailing Wall and the Church of the Sepulchre. But Israel has some surprises up its sleeve beyond its famous Biblical sites.

DO + SEE

With thousands of years of history, Israel has no shortage of atmospheric destinations, from the ancient clifftop fortress of Masada, site of a mass suicide by Jewish rebels, to the 800-year-old Crusader city of Acre. Prefer something more modern? Then spend some time in Tel Aviv, a buzzing coastal city with a lively bar scene and some outstanding restaurants. Design fans will want to explore the city's remarkable collection of Bauhaus buildings.

DON'T MISS

A dip in the super-saline waters of the Dead Sea, in which it is virtually impossible to sink, is an extraordinary experience.

WHERE TO STAY

Jerusalem's most atmospheric hotel is the luxurious American Colony, located not far from the Old City. The tranquil courtyard and lush gardens are a wonderful place to unwind. See americancolony.com

ESSENTIALS

Trafalgar Tours' nine-day Best of Israel tour takes in Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Nazareth and Tel Aviv. From $3525 a person. See trafalgar.com

UZBEKISTAN

Credit: Alamy

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT

Why travel to a country that most people would struggle to locate on the map? To discover some of the most splendid cities of the Silk Road, including Tashkent, Bukhara and Samarkand, filled with glorious mosques, madrassas and mausoleums.

DO + SEE

Much of Uzbekistan's most eye-catching architecture can be traced back to one man; local hero Timur the Great, who was also one of the bloodiest warlords of all time. Visitors are often entranced by attractions such as Samarkand's Registan, one of the world's great squares, and the beautiful Shah-i-zinda with its richly decorated tiles. Among the most imposing monuments is the Gur-e-Amir, the tomb where the mighty warrior and his descendants are buried.

DON'T MISS

Legend has it that when Genghis Khan unleashed his troops on the city of Bukhara, he was so impressed by the Kalyan Minaret that it was the only structure he spared. Although the soaring minaret is imposing from a distance, the best view is from up close, so that you can admire its intricate brickwork.

WHERE TO STAY

Samarkand's good-value Arba Hotel is not just comfortable and clean but also has some nice design touches, including exposed brickwork and colourful fabrics. See hotel-arba.com

ESSENTIALS

GAdventures' 10-day Highlights of Uzbekistan starts from $1549. See gadventures.com.au

LEBANON

Byblos harbour, Lebanon.

Byblos harbour, Lebanon.Credit: iStock

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT

Before the outbreak of civil war in 1975, Lebanon was considered one of the most appealing destinations in the Middle East. After a long period on the no-go list, governments around the world have been reducing their travel warnings about Lebanon, and large sections of the country are now off the black list.

DO + SEE

Love history? Lebanon has it in spades, from Phoenician and Roman ruins to ancient souks and crusader castles. The atmospheric cities of Sidon, Tyre and Byblos are all on the must-visit list, and you will enjoy plenty of fine Lebanese cuisine along the way, washed down with local wine made in the Bekaa Valley.

DON'T MISS

Lebanon's great outdoors is also worth exploring. Especially beautiful are the World Heritage-listed Qadisha Valley, where traditional villages and rock-cut monasteries cling to steep slopes, and the country's remaining pockets of cedar forest.

WHERE TO STAY

It stayed open even during the civil war, when it was a hub for foreign correspondents, but peace – and a renovation – has given Beirut's Le Bristol a new lease of life. The lovely Oriental Salon and the rooftop pool add to its appeal. See lebristolbeirut.com

ESSENTIALS

Explore's eight-day Highlights of Lebanon tour takes in destinations including Beirut, Byblos, Sidon and the Qadisha Valley. From $2290. See exploreworldwide.com.au

ARMENIA

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT

Adventurous travellers are starting to discover the hidden gem that is Armenia. Beautiful landscapes and welcoming locals are luring hikers from around the world, while culture lovers are enchanted by the string of medieval monasteries that are set amid the country's most picturesque peaks.

DO + SEE

The country's capital, Yerevan, is a charming city with tree-lined boulevards where old-school tea houses sit next to chic wine bars. However, it is out in the country where you will find some of Armenia's most memorable experiences. There is the cave village of Khndzoresk, hollowed out on a sloping hillside, and the Tatev monastery, reached by the longest cable car in the world. Other highlights include some dramatic canyons and the curious khachkar cemeteries, where the dead are commemorated with carved standing stones.

DON'T MISS

Armenia also has some interesting prehistoric sites, including Karahunj, a collection of tombs and megaliths spread over seven hectares, and the ancient petroglyphs at Ughtasar.

WHERE TO STAY

If you want to spend some time hiking through forests or fishing in crystal-clear mountain streams, the welcoming Avan Dzoraget hotel makes a great Caucasus Mountains base. See tufenkianheritage.com

ESSENTIALS

Wild Frontiers' nine-day Armenia: In the Shadow of Mount Ararat tour takes in many of Armenia's key sites. From $2376. See wildfrontierstravel.com

IRAN

Credit: Alamy

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT

Donald Trump may think differently but ask anyone who has visited Iran recently and they will tell you the Iranians are among the most hospitable people on earth. What's more, with a history that stretches back more than 5000 years, the country has no shortage of intriguing sights.

DO + SEE

The atmospheric cities of Isfahan and Shiraz battle it out for the title of Iran's most inviting destination. Shiraz's highlights include the magnificent Pink Mosque, an extraordinary bazaar and lush gardens such as the World Heritage-listed Eram Garden. Just outside the city limits lies another must-see, the ancient capital of the Persian Empire, Persepolis. Isfahan, on the other hand, is known for its beautiful bridges and magnificent Islamic architecture. Its vast main square is an utterly beguiling place to spend an afternoon.

DON'T MISS

For something completely different, the desert town of Yazd is known for its distinctive architecture, including its ingenious wind catchers and Zoroastrian fire temples.

WHERE TO STAY

The heritage-listed Moshir al-Mamalek Garden Hotel in Yazd features traditional architecture in an inviting garden setting. See hotelgardenmoshir.com

ESSENTIALS

Abercrombie & Kent's 16-day Iran: A Journey Through Persia includes overnight stays in Isfahan, Yazd and Shiraz. From $10,495. See abercrombiekent.com.au

Note: The featured destinations are subject to various travel advisories and alerts issued and updated regularly by the Australian Government. Before you book and go, visit the Department of Foreign Affairs' Smart Traveller website. See smartraveller.gov.au

FIVE MORE 'I DIDN'T KNOW THAT WAS ASIA' DESTINATIONS

AZERBAIJAN

Azerbaijan's big draws are its World Heritage sites, including the prehistoric rock art at Gobustan and the walled city of Baku, where 12th-century fortifications protect buildings featuring Zoroastrian, Sassanian, Arabic and Persian influences. See azerbaijan.travel

PALESTINE

Until recently, most visitors stuck to well-known destinations such as Bethlehem and Jericho. However the Palestinian Territories are increasingly popular with hikers and bikers whose itineraries take in less-visited sites such as the Samaritan and Byzantine ruins at Sebastia. See visitpalestine.ps

QATAR

Qatar is aiming to grow its visitor numbers by playing the culture card, commissioning some of the world's top architects to design signature museums such as the Museum of Islamic Art and the National Museum of Qatar. Other activities include dune bashing in the desert and bird watching in the Al Thakira mangroves. See visitqatar.qa

TAJIKISTAN

Love an alpine escape? Then this is the place for you. Mountains cover 90 per cent of Tajikistan, punctuated by shimmering lakes, making this a wonderful playground for outdoor types. The Pamir Highway, the world's second-highest road, is a favourite with road warriors. See tdc.tj

TURKMENISTAN

Turkmenistan's overblown capital, Ashgabat – all gold domes and marble palaces – contrasts with the ruined mausoleums and minarets of Konye-Urgench, one of Central Asia's grandest cities until it was overrun by the Mongols in the 13th century. Other highlights include the mesmerising Darvaza gas craters. See tourism.gov.tm

SO NO GO: FIVE ASIA DESTINATIONS TO AVOID

SYRIA

This was once one of the area's most appealing destinations, but more than seven years of conflict have done immense damage. In addition to the atrocious human suffering, the once-lovely city of Aleppo and the historic ruins of Palmyra have also been devastated.

YEMEN

This small country flew under the radar until the current conflict that has created the biggest humanitarian crisis in the world. While tourism is unlikely to take off any time soon, Yemen does have some potentially appealing destinations, including the World Heritage-listed walled city of Shibam and the scenic mountain village of Shaharah.

SAUDI ARABIA

Saudi Arabia finally introduced tourist visas at the end of last year, with the port city of Jeddah and the romantic ruins of Madai'in Saleh open to all. But women in particular still face plenty of challenges travelling around the country, while the nation's de facto ruler, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is mired in scandal over the barbaric execution of a dissident journalist in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.

IRAQ

After decades of conflict, Iraq's rich store of historic relics – which include the ruins of some of the world's oldest cities, including Nineveh and Ur – have suffered along with the rest of the country. With much of Iraq in need of rebuilding and security still a concern, this destination remains off the to-visit list.

AFGHANISTAN

It has been a no-go zone for three decades and the situation doesn't look like changing any time soon. That means we are still waiting on the opportunity to explore Afghanistan's famous landscapes, including the Valley of Paghman and the Hindu Kush.

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